Press On Regardless: Pursuing Wholeness After Brokenness

By Gary L Taylor

Press On Regardless comes from the heart of a man who experienced brokenness and struggled to recover. His painful journey of recovery was one with challenges and setbacks. In Press On Regardless, Gary Taylor shares that his greatest source of strength during his recovery was the Bible. He held on to Psalm 147:3 "He heals the brok

• Language: English
• Publisher: Resurgence Publishing LLC
• Release date: Jan 19, 2024
• ISBN: 9798869071866

Gary L Taylor

Gary Taylor is a 1981 graduate of Lee University (Cleveland, TN).  Since then he has devoted his life to full-time ministry. With 24 years as a Lead Pastor and 18 years as an International Evangelist, he has shared his powerful messages in local churches, Camp Meetings, Conferences, and on television.Gary's ministry has reached 27 states and several countries, making him a known figure for his exceptional communication skills, blending pastoral care with the passion of an Evangelist.In his first book, "Press On Regardless," Gary brings his rich ministry experience and deep faith to offer a message of hope and healing. It reflects a lifetime of work, emphasizing that with God's guidance, we can overcome life's challenges and find a path to wholeness and a brighter future in Christ. Gary Taylor's ministry showcases a life committed to sharing God's love and restoration.

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© 2023 Gary Taylor

PRESS ON REGARDLESS

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior permission of the publisher or in accordance with the provisions of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 or under the terms of any license permitting limited copying issued by the Copyright Licensing Agency.

Scripture quotations taken from The Authorized King James Version (KJV). Rights in the Authorized Version in the United Kingdom are vested in the Crown. Reproduced by permission of the Crown’s patentee, Cambridge University Press.

Scripture quotations taken from the New King James Version (NKJV)®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations taken from THE MESSAGE (MSG), copyright © 1993, 2002, 2018 by Eugene H. Peterson. Used by permission of NavPress. All rights reserved. Represented by Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries.

Scripture quotations taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation (NLT), copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

Scripture quotations taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, (NIV®). Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.TM Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Scripture quotations taken from the (NASB®) New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1971, 1977, 1995, 2020 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. lockman.org.

Library of Congress Control Number: 2023921976

ISBN: 979-8-8690-7186-6

Published by:

Resurgence Publishing, LLC

P.O. Box 514

Goshen, OH 45122

www.resurgencebooks.org

Cover Design: Aaftab Sheikh

Printed in the United States of America

Dedication

Press On Regardless is dedicated to anyone who has been broken in life or wounded in ministry. This book was written to be a source of hope, and encouragement to never give up believing God will bring you to a better, brighter day.

"I would have lost heart, unless I had believed

that I would see the goodness of the Lord

In the land of the living."

Psalm 27:13 (NKJV)

Recommendations

Every time Gary Taylor has filled the pulpit for me at Restoration Church, he has blessed our congregation with a fresh word of hope and encouragement. Now, with the release of his book, ‘Press On Regardless,’ he brings that same message in written form to inspire and impact a much larger audience. Gary writes with candor and conviction about his own struggles of being broken and crushed in the crucible of life, and points us to biblical examples of the same, while at the same time refusing the temptation to languish in despair or resign to defeat. Instead, he continually points with assurance to a better day and a brighter promise for those who keep their trust in God and refuse to quit. His words ring with the authenticity that can only come from someone who has held onto God and experienced the grace of God holding onto him.

- John V. Morgan, Lead Pastor,

Restoration Church, Jacksonville, FL

Gary Taylor is no stranger to the fact none of us are immune to the perils of life in a broken world. He is equally acquainted with the truth that no broken life escapes the care and provision of God, if one is willing to Press On, Regardless. This story, his story, will provide a roadmap for anyone struggling with the pain of unexpected tragedy and heartache and will point to the healing which God will bring through the journey toward Him. If you are grappling with the pain of disappointment in life, this book is for you!

- Toby Morgan, Administrative Bishop,

Virginia Church of God State Executive Offices

In one discourse, Gary has opened his Heart, shown us of God’s Help, and gives the reader immense Hope! Wisdom and Life Application from years of Pastoral ministry and the ‘walking out’ of his own faith, lends great authenticity to this work. A guide grounded in Scriptures, here, you will find a path to renewed Spiritual, Relational and Emotional Health as well as Wholeness in the aftermath of life’s trauma and tragedy.

- Jon Quigley, Lead Pastor,

Community Worship Center, Riverview, Florida

Press On Regardless: Get it, read it, and pray as you walk with him in his storm. In this book, he shares the story of his heartache and his healing. I believe, in its pages you will discover that God really does work all things together for our good.

- Freddie Edwards, Lead Pastor,

The Sanctuary, Sylacauga, Alabama

Press On Regardless: Pursuing Wholeness After Brokenness is a ‘must read’ for all who face a dark night of the soul. In it, we learn that no distance is too great for Jesus to overcome, and no heart is too broken for Jesus to heal. There is hope! Sorrow can be turned into joy!

- Mark L. Williams, D.Min, D.D., Lead Pastor,

North Cleveland Church of God, Cleveland, TN

Gary Taylor, besides being an incredible friend, preacher, and Christian, is now an author! This body of work will captivate you from the introduction with its conversational truths. You will find this raw, real, and relatable, but more importantly, you’ll discover a bright light of hope that may have been dimmed by life’s speed bumps, road blocks, or major accidents. I highly recommend this book for anyone, no matter how fresh or vintage their wounds and scars. I believe this book will be a giant step forward in getting past the past!

- Patrick Casey, Lead Pastor,

Rise Church, Mobile AL

In writing ‘Press On Regardless,’ Gary Taylor vividly relives his very real and very personal trauma. But what’s more, he offers his readers personal proof of Paul’s promise in Galatians 6:9: ‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.’ In these pages, Gary gives comfort for the weary and hope for the brokenhearted. He reminds us that God cares about our troubles and will guide us to safety.

- Bishop Ken Shelton,

Shelton Covenant Ministries

’Press On Regardless’ is written with a convincing trust in God’s power to sustain us during life-altering events. Gary Taylor speaks with authenticity and transparency and is an excellent writer. This book will propel the reader to take hold of God’s promises and walk into victory!

- Rhonda Brown, State Director,

Florida Church of God Women’s Ministries

I am so grateful that the Lord put it in Gary’s heart to write this inspiring book that helps to restore hope and healing for anyone who has experienced brokenness in their life. Using both scripture and personal experience, Gary takes us on a journey that begins with pain, continues through perseverance, but ends with praise. Jamie and I believe so much in the message of this book that we have made it required reading for every person going through addiction recovery at City of Lights Dream Center.

- Victor Massey, Lead Pastor,

Cooper City Church of God, Cooper City, Florida

My dear friend Gary Taylor has written a must-read book for any broken soul who is searching for the road that leads to recovery from life’s hurts and setbacks. It is a veritable roadmap that will point the way back to wholeness.

- Tommy Quick, Lead Pastor,

Dogwood Hills Church, Brewton, Alabama

Press On Regardless not only captivates the reader with its profound insights but also serves as a guiding light through the tumultuous journey of life. Each chapter is a testimony to Gary Taylor’s deep understanding of the human spirit and its incredible capacity for growth and healing. It is a masterful blend of personal anecdotes, spiritual truth, and practical advice—a must-read for anyone seeking guidance, healing, or simply a reminder of the strength that lies within us all."

- Dr. Devin Stephenson, President,

Northwest Florida State College, Niceville, Florida

Press On Regardless is a captivating read that truly opened my eyes to the power of forgiveness and new beginnings. The author’s presentation of facts and personal anecdotes from God’s Word shed light on the transformative nature of letting go, accepting what you can’t change, and embracing grace. The book celebrates the process of recovery, reminding us that it’s a journey worthy of celebration. It’s a heartwarming and soul-nourishing read, akin to honey for the soul, emphasizing the importance of pressing on despite life’s challenges. Never quit, press on regardless is the resounding message that resonates throughout this inspirational book, making it a must-read for anyone seeking personal growth and healing.

- Janet Swanson, Worship Leader,

Growth Church, Naples, FL

Foreword

I have known Gary Taylor longer than either of us would like to admit. We first met as students at Lee College in the seventies and have maintained a healthy and hilarious friendship over the decades. I was very glad to hear Gary was writing a book, and I was not disappointed by the honesty and candor he shared.

There are three things I appreciate about this book specifically. First, I appreciate that this book is scriptural. Historically, I doubt there’s ever been a time when we have needed more of the compass of scripture. Every page of this book is filled with sound biblical principles, stories, and quotes.

Second, I appreciate the powerful illustrations and narratives that educate and inspire. Third, I greatly appreciate the transparency of Gary’s very personal journey through suffering. If I were to choose a favorite chapter, it would probably be the chapter on the scarred life. That chapter means a lot to me because I remember when Gary went through those devastating valleys. I can’t communicate how much I respect how he handled those painful seasons with faithfulness and integrity.

Although this book deals with life’s darkest issues, it is very encouraging and hopeful, reflecting Gary’s personality as a gifted encourager. I would share this book with anyone going through a difficult time. I can see this book being used as an evangelistic tool. I also think it is a natural resource for small study groups. It is ideal for family devotional time. Since each chapter stands alone, selective chapters are helpful for discussion starters with counseling clients, students, or parishioners.

H. Edward Stone Ph.D.

Lee University

Cleveland, Tennessee

Introduction

Jesus began His earthly ministry by going into the synagogue (Luke 4:16-20) and announcing His assignment for coming to earth by reading aloud the scripture, Isaiah 61:1-3, The Spirit of The Lord God is upon me, because The Lord has anointed me to preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of The Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn, to console those who mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness: that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of The Lord, that He may be glorified.

In reading this Scripture, Jesus confirmed that emotional healing was a priority in His assignment from the Father. The statements, He has sent me to heal the brokenhearted and to comfort all who mourn, give hope to everyone dealing with emotional brokenness. Hope is essential in recovering from broken hearts and dreams. Throughout His ministry, Jesus offered people hope. He motivated them to believe for more, to face their fears, and to overcome failures.

At the end of Jesus’ ministry, He instructed His disciples to Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone, everywhere (Mark 16:15). Jesus began and finished His earthy ministry by offering hope. The Good News that Jesus spoke of is a message of hope. Hope has to do with expectation. It is the desire for something good to happen in the future. Jesus told His disciples to take His message of hope everywhere because it was for everyone. In other words, don’t leave anyone out.

Leave No Man Behind has been a creed of the United States military services from its beginning. The creed started with the French and Indian War in 1756 twenty years before the United States declared independence from the British. The interpretation of the phrase included medical treatment for the wounded, the recovery of military members’ bodies killed in action, and attempting to rescue prisoners of war. This kind of loyalty to one another is extremely rare and has its risks. Yet, when a soldier is entering combat there are few things more reassuring than to know your military brothers and sisters would go to these measures for you. Jesus began the Leave No Man Behind motto in Mark 16:15 with his Good News message of hope being taken to everyone, everywhere.

As Christians, we must continually work to develop a culture of hope to leave no one behind. Dr. Freddie Gage, a great Southern Baptist Evangelist for more than sixty years said, The Christian army is the only army that shoots and buries its wounded. Unfortunately, there is some truth in Dr. Gage’s statement. Every wounded soldier still has value, and restoration ministry needs to be a priority. Pastor Bill Bennot of Journey of Grace Church in Cape Town, South Africa, spoke of this priority when he said, How we walk with the broken speaks louder than how we sit with the great.

Author Hal Lindsey said, Man can live about forty days without food, eight days without water, four minutes without air, but not one second without hope. However the wound occurred, no matter the depth of pain experienced, or the destruction that came, there is hope for you. Proverbs 13:12 (NIV) Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life. When hope is lost it makes us sick emotionally. You can see it in a person’s face, eyes, and body language. You can hear it in their voice. When people lose hope, it is so easy for them to give up on life. The good news is that hope can be rediscovered. Listen to how Job describes his rediscovery of hope in Job 14:7-9, If a tree is cut down, there is hope that it will sprout again and grow new branches. Though its roots have grown old in the earth and its stump decays, at the scent of water it may bud and sprout again like a new seedling. Think about an old decaying tree sprouting new branches because of hope! What brought the tree down? Who knows? Here’s what we know: whatever brought the tree down could not keep it down because of hope. At the scent of water, it begins to bud again. The scent of water represents hope. Job didn’t say at the sight of water, but the scent of water. Just the scent of water is enough to bring hope. Hope isn’t always the result of a big event or major happening. It can come from a simple prayer, scripture verse, word of encouragement, book, poem, sermon, or song. Hope meets you where you are, and moves you forward. So keep in mind that whatever brought you down cannot keep you down because of the power of hope. Job told us about an old broken-down stump having the ability to sprout again because of hope. The power of hope gives you the desire to believe again, dream again, and try again.

Hope doesn’t mean your world is perfect, or that you never have any problems, anxiety, or stress. Hope is the expectation of a better future that gives you the courage to walk through each stage of emotional recovery on your way to wholeness. The word journey means the act of traveling from one place to another. On your journey from brokenness to wholeness remember the following:

God Cares

God cares about everyone who is hurting, whether their suffering is physical, emotional, mental, spiritual, or financial. The Apostle Peter gives some great advice in 1 Peter 5:7, "Cast all your